A THIRD OF YOUNG DRIVERS
ADMIT TAKING ‘SELFIES’
AT THE WHEEL
This bit of startling information comes from
Eugene Herbert, group managing director of the
RAC Group:
Distracted while driving (DWD) is a major problem in
most developing countries that have identified the use
of cell phones, while driving, as a causative factor in
some 25 % of crashes. Just when we thought that we
had conceived the worst example of cell phone use
(abuse) with the downloading of apps while driving as
well as communicating with friends via Facebook, then
a new phenomenon surfaces – selfies. A recent word
to the official dictionary this has been the subject of
research by Ford in Europe. Ford conducted research
in seven EU countries which found that young British
drivers are the most likely to take a ‘selfie’ while
driving.
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The survey was conducted of 7 000 smartphone users
aged 18-24 from across Europe and results revealed
that British drivers were the most likely to photograph
themselves while on the move (33 per cent), ahead
of counterparts in Germany (28 per cent), France
(28 per cent), Romania (27 per cent), Italy (26 per cent),
Spain (18 per cent), and Belgium (17 per cent).
Even though nearly all drivers surveyed agreed the
activities were dangerous. Shocked are you? Well no
doubt many others share your sentiment but in all
probability many of those, if given the opportunity to
“take a selfie” may well likely succumb.
While we obviously don’t have any idea what the state
of affairs is in South Africa we can, in all probability
conclude that it should be a lot worse given our
penchant for breaking the law. All drivers should take
a moment to reflect on the reality that, while they may
excuse using a cell phone, it is aside from DUI, one
of the most dangerous activities undertaken by road
users.
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A similar survey by ETSC’s member Liikenneturva
found a third of drivers admitted reading text
messages or Facebook while driving. In Europe,
transport accidents remain the largest single cause of
death among people aged 15 to 29.
•
•
General Motors is planning to introduce new
sensor technology in its cars to warn drivers
of lapses in attention either due to fatigue or
distraction.
The Belgian Road Safety Institute has launched a
new communications campaign targeting drivers
who use their mobile at the wheel. The BRSI say
1 in 3 Belgian drivers admits to sending an SMS
while driving and almost half say they have made
a call while holding the phone in their hand.
Well folks be warned – it may seem like a “cool” thing
to do at the time but rest assured it just isn’t worth
the risk. Remember – Drive Safe and keep your phone
where it belongs, away from prying hands.
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